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Flashing signals in the brain of an active mouse - a protein called Arc key to controlling neuron communication

16 August 2018

Tree of Light

Flexibility in the brain allows us to adapt and learn, by creating new connections between neurons, known as synapses, or strengthening the links we use most. Recent research following levels of a protein called Arc suggests that this process is balanced out by losing other connections. Neurons receive input from other cells through synapses along the branches, or dendrites, of a complex web of cellular protrusions known as the dendritic tree. This video shows signals, in green, starting at different points along a dendrite (in red) in the brain of an active mouse. Experiments manipulating neurons responsible for vision showed that stimulating one particular connection increased the synapse’s strength, while nearby synapses diminished. Strengthened synapses displayed low levels of Arc protein and more signal receptors, while weakened synapses featured fewer receptors and high levels of Arc, suggesting a mechanism by which this critical balance is maintained.

Written by Emmanuelle Briolat

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BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

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